Treatment of
Vaginal Itching without Discharge
Written by : Dr.M.D.Mazumdar, MD
Previous: Causes of Vaginal Itching without Discharge
Treatment of vaginal itching starts with diagnosis of the cause of the itching. A thorough examination will identify causes like lichen sclerosis, lichen simplex, eczema or psoriasis.
Lice and scabies can also be diagnosed by physical examination.
Swabs may be necessary for diagnosis of a bacterial or fungal infection or menopausal changes in the vagina. Patch tests are necessary to see if any contact allergy is present.
A skin biopsy will help in cases where there is itching with ulcers, sores, growths or depigmented areas to identify leukoplakia or skin cancers. Treatment is as per the cause.
The standard treatment is to prescribe a course of estrogen cream to be applied thice daily for a week and then gradually tapered off in the next 2-3 weeks. Simultaneous treatment of fungal infections can be carried out by using vaginal tablets or creams of antifungal substances like miconazole or clotrimazole. Oral estrogen tablets are usually not necessary unless the itching is very severe, or, if the itching is not controlled by vaginal cream application.
[an error occurred while processing this directive]
Anti-lice medicines like Nix or Elmite or Permethrin 1% should be used to remove lice from pubic hair. Nix and Elmite are contraindicated in pregnant and breastfeeding women.
Scabies is treated by 5% permethrin cream or lotion.
Other supplementary vitamins and minerals that increase the resistance of the body to infections of various types are Vitamin C 500 mg tablets taken once daily, Acidophilus tablets to stimulate growth of healthy lactobacilli in the vagina and to increase the acidity of the vagina and prevent infections and Zinc tablets.
Some general measures are beneficial in all cases of vaginal itching:
- Improve the general hygiene. Wash the genital area well with lukewarm water at least twice daily, being particularly careful to wash within the folds of skin.
- Use clean vaginal pads and wipes.
- Wash the anal and vulval area carefully from front to back.
- Wear loose, cotton underclothes and outer wear.
- Avoid nylon and other synthetic material.
- Vaginal douches and perfumed and coloured toilet paper are best avoided.
- Avoid scratching the area as far as possible.
- Take a probiotic or a cup of yogurt daily to maintain the vaginal ph.
Also Read -
- Normal Vaginal Discharge without Itching.
- Vaginal Discharge During Pregnancy.
- Vaginal Discharge During Ovulation.
Do you have a gynecological or obstetrical problem? Would you like to discuss it in private? Consult our online gynecologist Dr.M.D.Mazumdar, MD (O&G), at any time you want and get your reply within 24 hours.We charge a nominal fee of USD 20 ($20) per question through Paypal.com.
The procedure of asking a question is quite simple. Clicking on the link below takes you to the Paypal website where the payment is made. After the payment goes through, you will be directed back to this website where you can ask your question. And rest assured, you will get your answer within 24 hours. And usually, even sooner.